Concert is reward for winning recycling challenge

Panther photos by CJ Riley

Claflin Unviersity held an outdoor concert Friday night celebrating the school's recent win in the PepsiCo 2014 Campus Recycling Challenge. Claflin was awarded a $25,000 grand prize which funded the event.
Held in the Claflin Commons courtyard, the concert was hosted by Claflin alumnus comedian Jay Dukes and featured performances by Grammy Award-winning R&B and soul singer/songwriter Chrisette Michele, contemporary R&B artist JoiStaRR and the Claflin University Jazz Ensemble.
The concert was sponsored by PepsiCo Recycling, which announced earlier this month that Claflin won after achieving the highest percentage increase in recycling in the brand’s 2014 Campus Recycling Challenge.
The university collected some 652 percent more aluminum cans and plastic bottles between Oct. 1, 2014 and March 31, 2015, than it did during the same time period the previous year.
Since partnering with PepsiCo Recycling’s Dream Machine in spring 2013, Claflin has recycled more than 36,500 aluminum cans and plastic bottles on campus. That’s kept more than a ton of recyclable material out of landfills.

This article was first published in The Times and Democrat.

CAPTURING CALA-BASH

Painting With Panther Pride

By GIBSON NAJEE

Claflin alumna, Jasmine Wall and Public Relations professor, Ms. Bianca Crawford paired to bring “Paint Night Out” to Claflin University to kick off the 2015 CALA- Bash festival. On April 6th ,over 50 students and faculty gathered to enjoy music art and food in the Claflin Art Department. The event was just one of Monday’s highlights as the university officially started the 2015 CALA – Bash. “I felt very relaxed and like I could express my artistic ability in front of my peers,” said senior, Daniel Simmons.Claflin Arts & Letters Annual Bash is a yearly festival held at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
Originally envisioned as a single day to celebrate the artistic culture of the university, Calabash has grown into a weeklong celebration.
Overnight, the campus transforms, giving way to street vendors, live performances, and a cornucopia of artistic expression and school pride!
To the students, it feels like another spring break filled with fun, laughter, good food, and good music. "This annual festival is a great way to break up the tedium and monotony of campus life, providing a relaxed atmosphere for everyone to let loose and have fun before finals," said Clafin alum,Toney Gaines.

Vanessa Williams: 'Feet on the Ceiling'

By TAYLOR JONES

Award-winning actress Vanessa A.Williams took Claflin students on the ride of their lives, Feet on the Ceiling, performing a monologue during the annual CALA-Bash.
In this hilarious and moving coming-of-age story, Vanessa recounted tales of personal discovery and enlightenment.
"How do you know when you become a woman, when you have to make woman decisions?" Williams said.
Beginning her journey from a stoop in Bedford Stuyvesant, Williams said it took just one boy by the name of Julio for her to question the meaning of love. He was the charming Puerto Rican who all the girls wanted. To Williams' surprise, he wanted her.
Williams was the girl who guys didn't notice. Just the feeling of having Julio approach her made her feel accepted. They hung out and like most guys, he got simply what he wanted: her virginity.
From there Williams began to think that's all she was worthy of. To make matters worse, she had no one she could talk to as her mother died when she was young. Living with her grandmother who was two generations above her didn't help.
So Williams did what she thought was right by continuously having just sex with other guys. Williams began looking for sex to complete her, as a way of hiding her pain.
"I didn't know what love felt like. I thought love was sex," Williams said. It took Williams having to make a grown-woman decision to realize how much her actions were affecting her.
After making the decision to have an abortion, William said she felt transformed to be a better woman -- learning that promises are not guarantee, that being truthful takes courage.
Sex made her feel passionate and after that faded, she didn't know who she was. So Williams had to find who she was and what she wanted out of herself.
By traveling to Israel and Europe on a six-month tour of the musical HAIR, she found her uniqueness appreciated in ways she never knew possible.
This tale was about Williams as it relates to young women's quest to finding love, meaning and identity on their own terms.

Seniors pose for a picture on the red carpet before viewing their short films and documentaries at the annual CALA Bash Film Festival. (Left to right) Ashley White, JR Bryant, Imani Davis, Jayla McCaw, and Kyree Simon

Mass Comm. Shows Out!

By GIBSON NAJEE

On Wednesday, April 7th the Department of Mass Communications at Claflin University brought the red carpet to the Grace Thomas Kennedy auditorium with the 3rd annual CALA- Bash Film Festival. The night was full of emotion as students of Claflin University competed for awards in two categories; short film and documentary.“I’m just glad my work was able to be displayed” said second place documentary finalist and senior, Ashley White.The Awards were as follows:Short Film

1st Place: Clayton “J.R.” Bryant for Forgiven

2nd Place : Kyree Simon for MOMMA

Documentary

1st Place: Imani Davis for Junk Food Targets

2nd Place Ashley White for Colorism

3rd Place Jayla McCaw for Road to RebellionAll contestants were required to submit a 15 minute film to their choice of category. They were also required to have audio and be able to upload to YouTube. Claflin Arts & Letters Annual Bash is a yearly festival held at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Originally envisioned as a single day to celebrate the artistic culture of the university, Calabash has grown into a weeklong celebration. Overnight the campus transforms, giving way to street vendors, live performances, and a cornucopia of artistic expression and school pride! To the students, it feels like another spring break filled with fun, laughter, good food, and good music.
“This annual festival is a great way to break up the tedium and monotony of campus life, providing a relaxed atmosphere for everyone to let loose and have fun before finals,” Claflin Alum, Toney Gaines said.

Poetry Workshop

By DENNIS SIMPSON

On Thursday, April 9th, Jessica Care Moore, a poet from Detroit visited Claflin University during CALA-Bash week.Jessica Care Moore began writing around the age of 15 to 16 years old.She moved to New York City to pursue her passion and attended Def Poetry Jam in 1995. Moore is also the author of a series of books, “God is Not an American” and “Sunlight through Bullet Holes” are two from her collection.Along with her writings, Moore owns her own publishing company.Moore left students with the advice, “90s poets are old enough to learn through reading.” Moore stressed how important it is for poets to read other poets and how poetry is art, and art is powerful.Poetry to Jessica Care Moore is more than simple spoken word. She prefer for her poetry to be called readings because of her artistic view on the art. She even received threats when pursing her love for poetry in Detroit.“What you’re writing now will not sound the same in the future,” Moore closed.

​Jessica Care Moore (middle) poses with students after sharing advice and her experiences about pursuing her passion for poetry.

Performances on the Yard

By XAVIER SANDERS

Uniquepo, a Claflin student, rocked the mic as she performed a Japanese selection. The crowd loved it and embraced her with a hearty round of applause. She has introduced a new genre of music to the University.

Claflin University Theatre Ensemble’s Production of Dream Girls

By Brandi ThreattOn April 12, 2015 at 3:30 pm, in Orangeburg’s Stevenson Auditorium; Claflin University Theatre Ensemble showcased the stage play Dream Girls to bring a close to the celebration of CALA- BASH. (Claflin’s Arts and Letters Annual Bash)Director/ Professor Cedric Rembert directed his first musical with the Claflin University Theatre Ensemble. This play starred students of the University.“This was a pretty tough production to pull off. As a stage manager you don’t get the same rush that you do when you’re an actor, but overall I am proud of the work we’ve done,” said Assistant Stage Manager, Nakia Avila.“I had fun,” Actor Ar’Daris Stewart said.The 3pm star cast consisted of three seniors, Lia Holman (Lorrell), Rebeca Daniel (Effie), and Darien Woods (Curtis). Four juniors, Shanquel Young (Denna), Richard Ortiz (Marty), Eric Washington (C.C), Aria Dillard (Michelle), and one sophomore Ar’Daris Stewart (Jimmy).Dream Girls is written by Tom Eyen. It is the story of characters, Deena, Effie, and Lorrell who originated from a music trio called the Dreamettes. Their new manager Curtis Taylor takes creative control of the group and pushes the singers into the spotlight.The group encounters many differences that came with the high cost of fame; leading to a public breakup between the trio.

Claflin student editor wins award
as top S.C. collegiate journalist

Courtesy The Times and Democrat

Claflin University senior Princess Williams says she learned early on that her life’s goal of becoming a singer was not going to work out, so she decided to focus on talents with writing and speaking.On Friday, she used one skill to focus on the other as she delivered an address accepting the award as the South Carolina Collegiate Journalist of the Year for colleges and universities with under 5,000 enrollment. Williams was chosen for the honor presented annually by the South Carolina Press Association through its Collegiate Division, which promotes journalism excellence among student publications at South Carolina institutions of higher learning.Williams told the crowd — which included her mother and other family members, gathered at Bob Jones University in Greenville for the annual Collegiate Division conference — that she considers her role as editor of The Panther, Claflin’s student newspaper, one of the most important of her life.She detailed the opportunities the position has afforded her, including personal interviews with the likes of celebrities and newsmakers such as Bill Cosby and Nikki Giovanni, and journalistic experience she believes will be invaluable as a professional.In honoring Williams, the SCPA judges cited her commitment to the student press, taking the lead in recruiting other volunteer staffers, and taking on the reporting, photography and editing function alone as is often needed.Williams played the lead role in moving The Panther to its online format by handling administrative functions for the website (claflin.edu/the-panther) and recruiting unique content.Williams also has gained experience and exposure for her work and The Panther by contributing coverage to The Times and Democrat and TheTandD.com.The Ridgeland native and mass communications major is also a campus leader. She has balanced the editor’s job and academic responsibilities as an Honors College student with other positions, including being campus leader for the United Negro College Fund. And she has taken public service beyond working to inform, serving as a mentor with Project Life: Positeen Inc. in Orangeburg and a volunteer with Claflin’s AmeriCorp’s Saturday Academy.

The Panther Editor Princess Williams and South Carolina Press Association Executive Director Bill Rogers pose after Williams receives her S.C. Collegiate Journalist of the Year award for colleges and universities with under 5,000 enrollment during a ceremony on Saturday, April 11, 2015, at Bob Jones University in Greenville.

Claflin University students say there may be reason for concern after dorm break-ins following their return from spring break.Several female students told a magistrate the Claflin University campus has been terrorized by a man who broke into their rooms.Identified as a South Carolina State University student, Kabaris Daniels, 19, of Columbia, was taken into custody on March 19 on Claflin's campus and a day later charged with two counts of first-degree assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct, two counts of first-degree burglary and one count of second-degree burglary.After hearing from two female Claflin students and Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Leroy Durant, Orangeburg County Magistrate Sam Daily determined Daniels is a threat to the community and ordered him held without bond.Durant told the court the campus had been on edge for several weeks, though some Claflin students say they were unaware of any potential danger from an intruder. "After finding out what actually happened, I was speechless. I didn't believe it," junior Michael Jenkins said. "I couldn't imagine if that was my sister or my girlfriend. I would go crazy. He must've been on something, ain't no way . I just don't understand."Jenkins, who resides off campus, said he heard about the situation and wasn't clear on what actually happened. He thought it was a brawl or fight that took place, referencing the word "attack."Freshman Dasia Dukes, who does not live in either of the dorms that were entered, believes the university needs to understand the difference between the personal freedom of students and their safety."This is really sad. I am new in this area and found it to [be] pretty safe and somewhere I needed to be to continue my education," she said. "I have grown to love Claflin, however they don't need to confuse our personal freedom and space with our safety."Sharitta McMichael, a sophomore residing in the Student Residential Center North where the breakins/attacks occurred, said, "It saddens to know that such activity goes on in a residential hall that I stay in . I'm from out of state so it's not like I can just up and go stay with a relative until things cease."Imani Davis, a senior, said she did not particularly feel terrorized by the break-ins. Rather she felt "uneasy" in believing the university was withholding information from residents."I feel Claflin in general tries to put on a façade that everything is okay and not share what's going on with its students until it's too late," she said. "If we were made aware earlier of [the] suspect or something possibly going on, we could of prevented multiple incidents from happening and recurring. But when you're unaware you don't know to take precaution."Davis also said the university isn't doing much to beef up security after the incidents."I definitely think we should have more officers on campus, even at night, because the RAs get off at 12. So maybe from 1 to 4 there should be someone in there or at least an officer patrolling around campus to feel protected," she said.Another senior, Brandy Mack, said she, too, was uncomfortable with the university's flow of information."After the first incident, they should of been having meetings [and] sending emails letting everybody know," she said. "I didn't know anything about it until the day he got arrested.""I feel like the situation could have been handled way better," Mack said. "From what I heard, the guy had broken into three dorms in one night."Mack said the university should have taken action after the first dorm was broken into."My thing is, after the first incident or after he broke into the second dorm, why were there no police officers on campus? Things could have been handled completely different."Doward Hunter, a junior, said he does not feel threatened because he lives off campus, but his friends who live on campus did worry about danger."I think victims learned how to prevent themselves from being victimized through this experience," Hunter said."With the addition of more campus security guards, I feel confident in the ability of Claflin's security task force," he said. "This incident was definitely a learning experience. Of course security did not get everything right the first time, but I think they learned how to handle these situations better now."Students and staff are encouraged to remain vigilant and report all suspicious people to the public safety department by calling extension 5444.

Reports by The Times and Democrat contributed to this story.

President Tisdale's letteroutlines security upgrades

The following letter was sent by President Dr. Henry N. Tisdale to Claflin email accounts on March 31, 2015. It is titled "Safety and Security Enhancements."

I write to inform you that we have installed several new surveillance cameras, bringing to 20 the number of surveillance cameras in operation. By April 15, 2015, the University also will have a total of 14 call boxes in another demonstration of our commitment to enhance the safety and security of the campus. These additional safety devices, along with the Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol or SNAP, also strengthen our resolve to ensure Claflin University is a safe environment for high quality living and learning and are consistent with a new focus on campus safety and security that was articulated during my Matriculation Day address on September 4, 2014.

Please note the following:

Surveillance CamerasSurveillance of public areas is intended to deter crime and assist in protecting the safety and property of the University. You can be assured that the University will adhere to guidelines that address safety and security needs while at the same time respecting individual privacy of those attending, working or visiting Claflin University.Emergency Call BoxesThe University is increasing the number of emergency call boxes around campus so that students, faculty, staff and visitors can more conveniently contact public safety in case of an emergency.Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol (SNAP) ProgramThis program is designed to enhance safety relative to movement from parking lots to residence halls or offices. Any member of the Claflin University family may use the service by calling extension 5444. The service will be provided from 7 p.m. to midnight on Monday through Friday.

All questions regarding safety and security measures should be addressed to Mr. Steve Pearson, director of Public Safety at extension 5434 or Dr. Leroy A. Durant, vice president for Student Development and Services at extension 5341 during normal hours of operation. During evening hours and weekends, contact the Office of Public Safety at (803) 535-5444.As you are aware, the security and safety of our campus will be sustained and enhanced by remaining alert and watchful and reporting suspicious or unusual behavior. Your cooperation and support are greatly appreciated.

Students, parents help Claflin exceed Phase One campaign goal

By PRINCESS B. WILLIAMSClaflin University has made history by raising the largest amount in the history of the university.President Dr. Henry N. Tisdale announced at the Phase One Celebration on Thursday in the Jonas T. Kennedy Center that almost $90 million has been raised in the university’s capital campaign.“When we launched the campaign, we were focused on making a strong university even stronger. We wanted to bolster Claflin’s capacity to serve as a resource for the state of South Carolina,” Tisdale said. The funds have been used to strengthen academic programs, enhance facilities and build the endowment.The overall goal for this campaign is $96.4 million. The goal for the first phase was $80 million.The university exceeded the goal and is at $89.6 million.“I think we were successful because we had 10 or more seven-figured gifts,” Tisdale said.“This campaign was about hopes and dreams,” Capital Campaign Chair James A. Bennett said.Claflin parents played a major role in the campaign by surpassing their original goal of $50,000.The student body also had an original goal of $100,000 but skyrocketed to raise $162,438. It has a new goal of giving $200,000 to the capital campaign.Student Government Association President Dillon Isaac highlighted the impact of the campaign from a student’s perspective.“When I was a freshman in 2011, the Wi-Fi connection was very limited,” he said. “Now 100 percent of the campus is Wi-Fi-accessible.”More than 98 percent of faculty and staff donated to the campaign.“This campaign has indeed enhanced Claflin’s learning and teaching environment,” Board of Trustees Faculty Representative Dr. Caroletta Ivey said.Some of the university’s biggest supporters were:

Sodexo Nutrition - $4.3 million

Westbrook Family Foundation - $2.5 million

The late Jonas T. Kennedy - $1.3 million

“This evening, we envision moving Claflin to new levels of excellence. Yes, we’ve set the bar high, but we know we can. We must reach even higher. We believe the world needs visionaries,” Tisdale said. “There no stopping us now.”The campaign has also provided the university with:

100% SMART classrooms

A Molecular Science Research Center

The Dorothy Z. Elmore Chapel

The future is Orange, Maroon -- and green: Students lead Claflin in sustainability projects

By GIBSON NAJEEFriends of the Earth is the face of student-organized sustainability at Claflin University.The organization led by President Timothy Alston has been active on campus for around 10 years and is currently involved in multiple recycling efforts across campus.“FOE's goal is to raise awareness about the living environment so it can be better,” Alston said. The organization is currently comprised of three teams that collect recyclables around campus and bring them to the new recycling center located behind the cafeteria and to the Pepsi Dream Machine located outside of the cafeteria.“We have an internal competition as well as the nationwide one to motivate our efforts,” said Alston when asked how FOE is involved with the Pepsi Challenge. The goal is increase U.S. beverage container recycling to 50 percent by having universities compete in recycling bottles.The campaign by Pepsi has touched more than 65 colleges and collected more than 15 million bottles. It's one of the many efforts Claflin is currently a part of to move to a sustainable campus.The kickoff of the university’s sustainability projects was Sept 23,2014.Rodney Hudson, director of auxiliary services, headed new green campaigns around campus.Efforts include instillation of solar panels on dormitory roofs, the opening of a new recycling center, recycling cooking oil and using a biodigester machine for food waste in the cafeteria.Since the kickoff, Claflin university has become one of the nation's top 10 green HBCUs. The university is still pushing toward its own goals of increasing recycling, saving energy and recording local climate changes.

Does Mr. Right Exist?

By: KYANA ATKINS

Often we hear “ college is going to be some of your best days, it’s the place where you will meet your future husband”. Well, its senior year and graduation is rapidly approaching, still no Mr. Right.
So I begin to wonder if Mr. Right truly exists or is he an idea created to give us hopeless romantics,something to believe in.
I had the chance to speak with Claflin Senior, Cherrelle Martin, who is getting married this summer to her Mr. Right.
Cherrelle, like most college women believed that she would meet her future husband during her collegiate years.
“I thought I would meet somebody at Claflin, that’s what suppose to happen in college. I now realize that is a rare thing. I would say however, during the college years as you learn and grow to build your future you begin to think about life after college and marriage, and the feeling that you haven't met Mr. Right, now what’s going to happen kicks in.”
Cherrelle met her Mr. Right in the 8th grade, what begin as years of friendship, recently turned into the joining of soulmates.
Cherrelle may not have met her Mr. Right on campus but her advice to other collegiate women is,” wait on the right person, it might not be your time right now, but your moment is coming.”
So now my original question shifts from does Mr. Right exist to are college years meant to be the years we get ready to meet Mr. Right.
Is this the time for me to prepare myself for what happens when Mr. Right eventually comes into my life ? I believe so, college is the time where we are supposed to find ourselves and grow into the person we want to be when we walk across the stage in May. For much of my college years I viewed my future in terms of having a great career and the day I buy my first pair of Christian Louboutin heels. Now when I visualize my future I see myself as a career woman, wife and mother. I had to get a place where I am now ready for Mr. Right. I asked Claflin Senior Keneisha Corbett ,how do you know when you're ready? “ You have to be comfortable with yourself, you need know what you want in life, college is the time for you to do that, when you get to that point you will know you're ready.” So you're ready for Mr. Right and he is ready for you, now what? Cherrelle Martin, 22 felt marriage was the next step with her Mr. Right. “ At first everyone was concerned, even I felt like we might be too young, but I realized I am ready, he's ready, we’re ready, it felt right. She goes on to say, “I was comfortable with him, we’ve watched each other grow. Our history played a big role in the decision.” Cherrelle knows that being young, fresh out of college and married isn’t going to be easy but she and her fiancé are ready for the challenge. The couple will wed in August. To answer the age old question does Mr. Right exist, I say yes he does, you have to be ready for him when he does arrive. Until then enjoy your college years and continue to evolve into the visionary women Claflin molds us into becoming.

Dr. Leroy Durant held a news conference on March 3 to discuss the status of the university and tell students about what they can expect in the future.Durant, the university’s vice president of student development and services, said changes on campus have improved the student experience.“Claflin’s top priority will always be the students that come to the university [and] making sure they succeed,” he said.Durant noted the addition and opening of Claflin’s new co-ed dorm, the Commons, the addition of 22 security cameras throughout the campus and parking lots, as well as the addition of emergency phones.The locations of the cameras include: GTK, Asbury (2), Goff parking lot, Chapel, East Hall, JST, Gym, South Hall, Kleist, High Rise (2).Cameras were not added to monitor students, Durant said. They are to increase security, with university public safety personnel doing the monitoring.“More eyes may make the students feel more secure,” he said.Regarding future improvements, Durant said the next project for the university will be paving the parking lots along Goff Avenue during the summer.Beyond that, he informed students the university has plans to expand the Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Education Center by adding another common-use area for students as well as a pool.Meanwhile, he said there could be an increase in tuition in the coming year due to budget cuts.“These are tough times for high[er] education,” he said. “In public education today, throughout the United States there are a tremendous amount of cuts being made … the thing you have to do is manage what you have and I think Claflin has managed effectively.”He said the university has the fourth lowest tuition rate of private institutions in the state and there has not been an increase since the 2011-12 school year. Current tuition is $7,600 per semester.Despite the possible increase, Durant said the university’s main goal is to keep students in college. “But they (students) have to do their part as well.”

Claflin Vice President Dr. Leroy Durant talks with mass communications students during a news conference on March 3. (Panther photo by CJ Riley)

Protect what belongs to YOU!

By: PRINCESS B. WILLIAMSPanther Editor

Did you know that books are the most common items stolen here on Claflin’s campus?
Books are the most common because, they are expensive.
“A student may put a textbook down in the cafeteria or library, and someone will just come along and pick it up,” Police Chief of Claflin University, Steve Pearson said.
The most common crime on Claflin’s campus is petty larceny.
“Larceny is a crime of opportunity. It’s not like sometimes people just wake up and want to go commit a larceny, but you sit something down, and the opportunity presents itself. Someone will just walk up and pick the item up,” Pearson said.
The rate of larcenies remained the same through 2013 and 2014, averaging approximately 20 larcenies on the campus per year.
Campus security must follow specific procedures when students report stolen items.
“The first thing we do is have the victim fill out an incident report. On an incident report, we basically get their basic information, such as their name, age, location of the incident, and the date. We try to document the specifics of the item that was stolen,” Pearson explained.
Keeping your personal items safe is your personal responsibility. Here are a few of Chief Pearson’s prevention tips:
• Never just place your cellphones and books anywhere.
• Take your personal items with you.
• Lock your room door when you’re not in your residence hall.
• Document the serial numbers of your electronic items. (Some electronic devices have tracking devices on them).
• Make sure that your tracking devices are activated, and you have registered your electronics with the company that you purchased it from.
“When certain items such as Mac Books and laptop computers are stolen here at the university, we can track some of those items, if we can receive the serial number of the electronic,” Pearson advised.
Students must protect all of their personal items to the best of their ability.

Theft Stats

In 2010, 92,695 crimes were reported to college and university campus police. Of these reported crimes, 97% were property crimes, and 3% were violent crimes.

In most cases, campus thefts are crimes of convenience.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners suggests that off campus students get renters insurance. This cost between $15 and $30 a month and covers electronics, computers, clothes, and bicycles and other items that can be stolen.

In the 2013, Claflin University had 14 auto break-ins.

​Claflin student encourages others to PUT THEIR HEALTH FIRST

By TULLEESHA BURBAGE

Obesity has become such a problem for college students. Between studying, stressing out and the pressure of college, college students turn to eating unhealthy foods to cope. College students overindulge at the cafe, pizza hut, chinese food, the pit and local restaurants. Unhealthy ingredients can develop health problems in the future. It starts right here and now! Get off of this train of an unhealthy lifestyle and start a new healthy lifestyle. It starts with you, a bottle of water, determination, consistency and making smarter and healthy food choices on and off campus. Having a positive team that can encourage you along the way will be a great help! I have just the right woman that can help you get closer to your goal.

Khadijah Percell, a Claflin University student began her journey to helping others achieve their fitness goals about 2 years ago.
“Before then, I was always into fitness but it was just for myself mainly, as an outlet to get rid of my frustrations in a healthy way. It is not easy raising two boys and caring for a grandmother who's battling with cancer, while trying to get an education at the same time, however fitness has made this possible for me,” Percell said.

Watching her grandmother fight cancer is what motivated Percell to help others. Her grandmother always said, “I wish I would have taken better care of myself when I was younger". Percell took that message and ran with it, trying to influence as many young adults as she could. She started training just one girl, then, five. Now, Percell assists 20 ladies and gentlemen with living a healthier lifestyle. Percell teaches the students about nutrition as well. She simply enjoys doing what she does free of charge. “I just want every young person I encounter to have a chance my grandmother always wished for,” Percell said.

She has a myriad of success stories from students at Claflin University. Percell’s workout consists of working on the abs, legs, arms and buttocks. She assists you one-on-one. Before and after every work out, Percell likes for everyone to join hands and pray. She takes before and after pictures so students can see their progress. It’s more than a workout. It is more than movement. The students are developing a family. They talk to each other, encourage each other and lose the weight together. Students of all shapes and sizes come out to be a part of this movement. Not only does she give students a good workout, she teaches students how to eat healthy and make better choices. She gives them examples of food charts and workouts that they can do at home if they are unable to make it to the gym. Percell also gives tips and advice. She gives students the encouragement to continue. At the beginning of their process, she informs students that the task before them is not easy, but to never give up no matter what obstacles they are faced with. If you want something, you will work for it and she is here to help. Percell is building self-esteem and confidence in these students. Every Monday-Friday, she is located at State’s track at 8am-8:50am. If weather conditions are inclement, she moves the workout to Claflin University’s gym, JTK.
“Kay theBody Movement is open to all. She has her own website: kaythebody.com. You can also follow the movement on Instagram @kaytheboday. Khadijah Percell wants everyone to remember to always put your health first.

PANTHER PROFILE

Daniel ‘DSims’ Simmons: Go-to-guy for sound

By CHRISTOPHER BOWMANWhen he wakes up, Daniel starts his day with the production of one of his daily beats and instrumentals.He always leaves his heard on every time through his organic and futuristically orchestrated melodies. After completing one beat, Daniel saves it and commences another.There are a plethora of producers in the music industry, but even peers can attest to the fact that Daniel is slowly moving into an echelon of his own.Daniel is the go-to guy on Claflin’s campus for all sound production and audio engineering needs.Born in Harleyville but raised in San Diego, California, Daniel, “DSims” to his peers, has come back to his state of birth to leave his stamp on the Southern music scene.When he is not in the studio, the 21-year-old Claflin University senior loves everything from traveling and attending concerts to networking and shopping for the newest footwear.Artists on campus respect “DSims” and don’t hesitate when given a chance to work with him — unless the price is not right.“My time is money, so if you don’t have money to work, don’t waste my time,” Daniel says. To avoid any confusion during the creative process, Daniel leaves this disclaimer every time.Stetson Hagood, South Carolina State University senior ,says, “DSims is a legend in the making to have made as many moves and met as many people as he has. His future is beyond bright.”As far as Daniel’s plans, he will be working on a self-produced EP in the upcoming winter and spring season.All the while, “DSims” is living in the present.“Stay tuned,” he says. “There is plenty more to come.”As he says this, he descends his head back into his laptop to create yet another masterpiece worth tuning into. One can only imagine what great melodies he will concoct this time around.

PANTHER PROFILE

Truman Scholar Emmanuel Pressley: Action and accomplishmentBy PRINCESS B. WILLIAMSEach morning he wakes up around 6:45 to go to breakfast. Then he heads to the gym with his best friend from 7:30 to 8:30.Upon their arrival back, he normally turns on some smooth jazz or gospel while showering and preparing for classes. Before leaving his residence hall, he checks his email and reviews his planner to see if he has any meetings or special engagements.Each night he prepares an “action list.” The list consists of every assignment or extracurricular responsibility in conjunction with his personal agenda. He meticulously plans what he must do and the things he would like to do.After completing each assignment, he ends the day studying his Bible and praying.Claflin University’s Truman scholar, Emmanuel Pressley does not follow the schedule of a typical college student.Does the name ring a bell? It’s the name of that smiling face you see on the billboard when driving down the interstate or passing Claflin University.Emmanuel Pressley is the only person in the state of South Carolina to obtain the 2014 Harry S. Truman Scholarship. The Truman Scholarship is the second highest scholarship in the nation.It is a National Merit Scholarship founded in 1972. It is named after our 33rd president, Harry S. Truman.Essentially, it is a public service scholarship that looks for individuals in their junior year who have demonstrated high academic achievement, leadership potential and a commitment to public service.“Within obtaining it, you have to write nine essays. You have to prepare a policy presentation, research it, as well as a slew of interviews that are state, regional and national. You have to articulate your community and public service commitments, but also defend your policy presentation to a panel of six Truman scholars, as well as other invited guests,” Emmanuel said.“I had to tailor my community service outreach. I had to tailor my classes, in which they were diverse. I had to take a balance of psychology, philosophy, English, math, history each and every semester, as well as they were rigorous.“I was taking 19, sometimes 20 credit hours per semester, as well as my internships and leadership experiences on campus. I had to tailor that, all geared toward obtaining the scholarship.”Pressley is a member of the Student Activities Board, the Alice Carson Tisdale Honors College and Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society.Hailing from a small town did not deter Emmanuel from the path of pursuing his huge dreams. Pressley is a 21-year-old senior from Hemingway who is majoring in politics and justice studies.“Hemingway is a small town in Williamsburg County. It literally has like three stoplights. We have no McDonald’s. Everyone knows each other. It’s a close-knit community,” Emmanuel said.One of Pressley’s biggest obstacles on his academic journey was growing up in a single-parent household.“Quite frankly, it never dawned on me until I got to college. It never dawned on me that I wasn’t living in the normal nuclear family until I observed the relationship between my best friend and his father. They’re like best friends. They talk all the time, so that’s when it really dawned on me.”“It really affected me in trying to find what is masculinity and what is manhood for myself. I remember wrestling with the decision of whether or not I wanted to have children, and whether or not I wanted to do certain things. When asked if I wanted to be a father, I was like, ‘Well I don’t know. I grew up in a single-parent household. How can you expect me to do something that I’ve never even seen before?“I think at that moment, it really pushed me to come to the understanding about manhood, and what is manhood, and how will I define it for myself. It pushed me toward taking a Men and Masculinity class. I’ve read different novels, and I’ve always been informed when it comes to the public, when it comes to popular culture, as well as how our society sometimes stigmatizes, stereotypes and demonizes men, as well as their masculinity, as well as the patriotic view of our society today.

“I think through being educated, and through taking classes, but also going through a struggle, and an attempt to find myself, my manhood and my masculinity, I’ve come to the understanding of how I define masculinity, which is honor and character.”Becoming a Truman scholar was by far one of the best single moments of Emmanuel’s undergraduate career.“To stand there and have a gymnasium full of people applauding you and cheering you on was amazing.”Emmanuel’s mouth dropped when someone sent him a picture via text message of himself on a billboad.“I was actually prepping for the LSAT, taking a Kaplan course at St. John’s School of Law in Queens, New York. I had no idea they were going to put me on the billboards. My best friend, Deontez Wimbley, texted me and he said, ‘Pressley, they got you on a billboard!’ I said, ‘Deontez, stop playing. What do you mean? Claflin put me up on the marquee outside or something?’ I did not believe him at that time, because I did not believe that Claflin would put me on a billboard. I really did not.”Upon graduating in May 2015, Emmanuel will be pursuing his master’s degree at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He hopes to obtain a law degree from Harvard University as well.Emmanuel is an aspiring civil rights attorney and legal scholar. Pressley would like to run for office and create a nonprofit organization geared toward combating felon disenfranchisement laws and help rehabilitating ex-offenders back into society.Like the scholar he is, Emmanuel already has his action list completed with the steps listed to achieve these goals. People from all over have seen his face and name on billboards. Look out. The next stop may be on our television screens.

Drey's Diaries

By: AUDREY DATIEKAColumnist

This my first piece of the year and I wish everyone a happy and prosperous new year. We are in the month of love which has gotten a lot of couples really excited. However for those who are single, do not be discouraged. This is also a time to celebrate self-love. This month is also Black History Month. I would not say much but leave you guys with a poem I wrote in high school:
“We are who we are.
We were what we were.
We are what we were.
We are the dreams woven in the stars shining across the starry skies.
We are the fuel burning with desire buried within the soul.
We are who we are
We become what we become
We are what we became
We become the wind whispering in the woods, twirling and dancing with the leaves.
We become one with the yellow smiling sun, warming the four corners of the earth.
But what are we if we were to be in the shadows
Who are we becoming if we let our voices become voiceless?
What were we becoming if we did not stand tall discovering all covers
Dreaming with imagination; imagination coupled with creativity, upright with innovation
They said we are becoming the unbecoming
Because we stood with one voice in perfect symphony
With roots from the dusty footfalls of Africa,
We are what we were
We are who we became.”

Claflin vs Benedict BasketballFASHIONGame

By: KYANA ATKINSFashion Journalist

Orangeburg, It is that time of year again, the big game against our rival Benedict College. This game is like no other, the stands are packed with everybody from students to parents to local residents. The atmosphere is also like no other, the team is on fire, the cheerleaders are battling back and forth and most importantly the fashion game is on point. It has become a tradition to go through your closet and find your best outfit because you never know who you will see at the game. The JTK area runway features club looks, casual attire and of course orange and maroon gear. This year I am naming class of 2018’s very own Shirrel Jackson best dressed at the game. Her outfit screams urban chic with a high class twist. The all-white ensemble paired with a faux fur vest and flats without a doubt slayed the panther runway.

Think you’re the best dressed on campus? Tweet me @kyanaatkins your best look for the chance to be featured in the Panther on Fashionista Fridays.

Shirrel Jackson
Photo by: Instagram

HOMECOMING 2014

Parade marches Claflin in Saturday homecoming events
By HAVEN TULLOCH

The Claflin University homecoming parade started at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, kicking off a full day of events.
The parade route was along Russell Street to the Claflin University’s gym parking lot.
Russell Street as well as Magnolia Street were blocked off from traffic to allow the parade to go on without any interruption.
High school marching bands and female dancers joined the parade and played their instruments as they walked.
There were a couple of floats for Miss Claflin University, the Homecoming Queen and others.
President Henry N. Tisdale and the first lady participated in the parade, waving and enjoying the celebration.
Fraternities, sororities, cheerleaders and alumni all merged together and walked in the parade to represent and spread the Claflin University pride.

Adrian Marcel (top) and Luke James (bottom) took the crowd through a range of low and high notes at the concert on Thursday. (Photos by Clayton JR Bryant)

R&B artists tear up the stage at Homecoming concert

By PRINCESS B. WILLIAMS

R&B artists, Adrian Marcel and Luke James wooed the audience with their soulful voices Thursday night. Adrian began his performance with a brief roll call to get a feel of where his audience members were from. Adrian revealed that he is from Oakland, California. Shortly, after a little more crowd interaction, he began to sing a number of selections from his latest album that is currently on iTunes.
When Adrian finished performing, Luke James and his band took over the stage and began giving the crowd what they've been anticipating. Luke didn't hold back on any notes, taking the audience from extremely high notes to extremely low. He opened the floor up to the audience's request singing whatever selections they wanted to hear. He saved his hit single, "I Want You" until the end of the show.
"This is not a time for thinking. You can think when you're in class tomorrow. Right now, I just want you to feel...feel the music," Luke said.
If you didn't know who these artists were before you attended the concert, you certainly know now. If you weren't in attendance, you missed out on a soulful treat.

Have you been "hypbrotized?"By PRINCESS B. WILLIAMS

"SLEEP," Leroy "HypnoBro" Williams shouted!
Suddenly about 20 volunteers were on stage in the WVM Fine Arts Center in a deep trance.
As the students volunteered to come on stage, HypnoBro informed them that the hypnosis process requires three things: concentration, imagination, and relaxation.
"If you have a working mind and the ability to create, you can be hypnotized or even learn hypnosis," HypnoBro informed the crowd.
At the sound of applause students went deeper into a trance.
HypnoBro took the volunteers on the journeys of their hottest and coldest day, smelling beautiful aromas to foul stenches, and even reverted the voluteers back to the stage of being an 18-month old babies that haven't been fed all day.
"Put a thought in your conscious mind, it begins to germinate."
"When you go to sleep tonight, you will sleep better than you have in days, weeks, months, or even years,"HynoBro closed.
Needless to say, none of the volunteers have any recollection of what happened while being on stage Wednesday night.
They have officially been HypBrotized!

Pep rally on plaza gets students ready for games

By HAVEN TULLOCH

The crowed was live and full of spirit Friday evening on Panther Plaza at Claflin University.
There was a black commercial van that brought all of the music equipment and to add, there was a MC that controlled the crowed.
The pep rally started with music that got students in the spirit of homecoming. Dancing, socializing, hanging out and having fun was highly encouraged.
The Pep rally was used to get students and alumni pumped for the remaining days of homecoming and for the basketball games on Saturday.
In the middle of pep rally, the MC introduced the male and female basketball players. After the introduction, the cheerleaders did a cheer that would get the crowed going.
There were dance competitions being held, with the winner at the end of each competition getting a small prize.
There were giveaways being thrown all throughout pep rally including:

· Hats

· Shirts

· Balls, which had a special code for an even greater prize.

R&B artist Sammie is surprise
guest for Greek Step Show

By TYLER JACKSON
The annual Greek step show was held Nov. 22 during a fun-filled weekend of homecoming events.
Members of historically black Greek-lettered organizations at Claflin University and neighboring institutions were invited to present competitive performances for alumni and the Orangeburg community to enjoy.
Each year, the NPHC Step Show is a highly anticipated event for which chapters practice for months. This year's event did not disappoint, with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. taking home first place in the sorority and fraternity categories.
There was also a surprise special guest at the step show, R&B artist Sammie from Atlanta came to perform some of his greatest hits. The crowd enjoyed his performance and was more than excited when announced he would be meeting fans back stage after the step show.

KiKi Sheard didn't hesitate to bring the house down as she sang with all her might. (Photo by: Krystal George)

Claflin University kicked off homecoming with Sunday night’s Gospel Explosion.
About 350 people filled Jonas T. Kennedy Center in excitement to see gospel artist Kierra “Kiki” Sheard. Along with Sheard, artist Kebra Moore and college choirs contributed selections.
“I’m not here as a celebrity, I’m here as your sister in Christ,” Sheard said before performing.
Sheard sang songs from her new album, Graceland, which is in stores now and also a few selections from previous albums. Between selections, “Kiki” inspired and encouraged students to pray and have great faith.
“Money is the currency here on earth but faith is the currency in heaven,” Sheard said.
Dressed in a hip-hip themed outfit and performing very upbeat songs, “Kiki” was able to minister to the youth on an age-appropriate level. They appeared very interested and entertained, often times yelling “NO” when she suggested she was talking too much.
The gospel concert was opened and closed with prayer led by SGA Chaplain Dorian Dillard. 2012 Claflin graduate Justin Rufus hosted the event, offering musical selections during intermissions.
The Claflin University gospel choir D.R.E.A.M was also featured. D.R.E.A.M premiered a new song titled, “I’m Free,” that they will be singing during their live recording on Nov. 22. The crowd enjoyed the call and response with the choir in attempt to learn the new song.
Guest choirs included South Carolina State University’s “United Voices of Christ,” which sang three selections, and Coastal Carolina University’s gospel choir. They sang one song that thrilled the crowd.
Graduate of Claflin College, Kebra Moore, representative for the group “Singing Behind the Wheels,” performed three songs: “I Am Beautiful,” “Testimony” and “Never Let Him Go.” Moore, seated in a wheelchair, revealed that she was paralyzed in a car accident and now performs to inspire others. Moore’s presentation included familiar hip hop beats and upbeat backup dancers, which seemed to be a trend for the night’s performances.

(Photo by: Clayton JR Bryant)

Freestyle Funny Comedy Show
BY: TAYLOR D. HARRIS

Homecoming is kicking off with a bang this year. On Tuesday, November 18, 2014, Claflin held the Freestyle Funny Comedy Show in W.V.M. Auditorium.
The host of the show was none other than the comedian Dukk. He had the crowed rolling as soon as he walked on stage. Dukk performed at Claflin’s Homecoming last year.
Dukk then introduced four other comedians to the stage: Bdaht, Chico Bean, Osama Bin Drankin, and Darren. Chico Bean is an actual cast member from Wild n’ Out with Nick Cannon.
They talked about topics that us college students could relate to like:

The food in the Café

Being sent to the office when you were little

How it feels when you get your paycheck

Roommate problems

Natural hair and weave isn’t for everyone

The importance of using protection

The comedians also asked students who wanted to participate in games with the guys on stage to go on social media and tweet #FFCSpickme.
One of the students that were brought on stage was our Student Activities Board Vice President, Dahlia Mallett and Mister HBCU 2014-2015, Anthony Hyland. One of the games they played was called 2 pictures, one word.
The Freestyle Funny crew kept the audience in stitches all night long. If you weren’t there, you missed out on a whole lot of funny!

Ashleigh's Addition

​BY: ASHLEIGH N. HARRIOTT​The Panther

The Claflin Commons' opening was anticipated by everyone at the university. Upon its opening, students could not wait to move into this new building. Everyone was more than happy to be done with the temporary living arrangements that we all had been stuck with. Soon after moving on, the problems started to arise. Is this a building that generations of Claflin students can live in comfortably? The construction workers and maintenance men in and out of your room all day is a bit of an inconvenience. Hopefully, this will all stop sooner than later. Three washing machines and dryers for 100 people is a bit of a hassle. Having a rack for a closet isn't that pleasant. The random noises, the waiting 15 minutes for somewhat hot water is a bother. Are all of these issues worth the high quality finishes that the Commons has to offer? The Claflin Commons is a very good use of space as far as how many people they were able to fit in the residence hall, but was this space used wisely? I believe that the biggest problem that the Commons faces is the closet space or the lack there of. As a resident of the Commons, I literally had to utilize every single inch and corner of my room. This is what we signed up for, so we're stuck with it for now. On the other hand, improvements will definitely have to be made in the future for the Commons to live up to its full potential. It's a beautiful building, but a little small for students' accommodations.

Crowns, Gowns and Queen Things: Lia Holman’s Coronation

BY: CRYSTAL PAYNE

Ms. Annette Grevious began the coronation by informing students, faculty, staff and family of Lia Holman of the purpose of this event. The royal court and other queens of campus clubs and organizations were introduced, along with gentlemen who accompanied them to the stage. The girls, decked in their sparkling black or red dresses, danced and welcomed the audience to peek into Lia’s unique and queenly version of Broadway, and the audience accepted that invitation.Lia was revealed, being the pinnacle of beauty in her jewel-studded white gown, standing center stage in front of a seat fit for a queen. After being presented with her crown, Miss Claflin University sash and scepter by our very own President Dr. Henry Tisdale, Holman took her throne and the program continued with performances dedicated especially to her.The audience was serenaded with songs and exhilarating dances by C.U’s very own new Motown, Supremes, Temptations and Michael Jackson reincarnated. Miss Claflin herself took the microphone and sang. Receiving a standing ovation, Holman humbly thanked the audience for their support.Dillion Isaac, the president of SGA, briefly took the stage, speaking highly of Lia and describing her as a “woman of distinction defined by her elegance and contribution to her University.” Isaac continues by saying “She epitomizes the ideals of Claflin University and embodies the stature, fortitude, pride and capability of Claflin. Congratulations Lia!”

​Drey's Diaries

​BY: AUDREY DATIEKA​The Panther

Money

Money

Money

Moneyyyyyyyyy

Yes we’ve begun a new month with expectations for something new and exciting. Well there is the issue of money. While some of us would be smiling all the way to the bank as its pay day, some of us are also doing extensive room cleaning just to find a few quarters.Money is a word frequently popping up in every one’s mind, but is money really important? Well they say money is the root of evils however, in today’s world, almost everything centers on money. You can’t go anywhere or do anything without money.I sometimes think back to how first money started, when people way back in the days just exchanged goods. Some parts of the world actually used big stones as money. Weird huh? I am still trying to figure out how a simple printed piece or a piece of metal became so valuable.So if money was not important or needed, would you be in college or would you still chase your dreams? Well for me all I would need is a few lessons in geography and cultures of the world then I am good to go. I would just jump onto a plane free and go to where ever I want to go, buy whatever I want(mmm not actually buy just pick anything from a shop ) and do whatever. However come to think of it, people are motivated by the prospect of making money, so if money wasn’t important, would the world be how it is now? Well we would never really know, would we?For me all I want is enough money to live comfortably and still pursue my dreams. To those lucky ones who have received their pay checks and are regular visitors to Pizza Hut, Zaxbys, McDonalds and the like, this month wouldn’t even come to end and you would be running back to the cafeteria. But that’s none of my business though, this tea taste great, must be from Japan, lol.

Surprise me November……..

English major, Ta’Shae Sterling publishes her first book

BY: PRINCESS B. WILLIAMSPanther Editor

Senior, English major, Ta’Shae Sterling has published her first book, entitled A Walking Contradiction.Sterling wrote the book within a four year time span. The novel is self-help book with information on bettering ourselves.“Basically, it’s about everybody having the potential to better themselves, instead of living day to day, being rude to people, and setting goals and dreams, but not doing any actions to move forth and accomplish them, I’m saying stop procrastinating, and start being a better version of yourself now today. So I give step-by-step guiding help, and I hope that it’s very helpful for everybody,” Sterling said.Sterling recalls having a niche for writing since the third grade.“I guess I’ve always had a natural passion for writing,” Sterling recalls.Sterling received the inspiration for writing this book simply from watching the world news.“For example, baby formula was being contaminated, and I’m like, ‘This is crazy. What kind of world are we living in?’ However, I cannot say we’re living in a bad world, because at the same time, people are having fundraisers every other day trying to raise some awareness for something positive, so therefore, I was trying to realize that life as we know it is really a walking contradiction, so that was my inspiration,” Sterling explained.Sterling has plans of publishing more novels in the future, and is currently working on two.Sterling’s advice for other young aspiring writers is:“I remember reading somewhere, ‘If you want to write a book, then just do it.’ I partially agree with that statement, because I feel that you can do whatever you want to do as long as you put your mind to it, and do it, but also own your talents and skills. If that’s what you truly want to do, then go take some classes. Go write something, and give your work out to other people with opinions that you value, so you can better your craft. So I wouldn’t say, ‘If you want to write a book, then just do it.’ I would say, ‘Write it. Let the people with valued opinions read it, critique it, and that’s how you write a book.’”

It's a Go for EnVeaux!​

BY: J.R. BRYANT

Claflin University's En Veux Modeling Company had the first show of the year on Monday Nov. 2.
The show featured the models sporting their most fashionable clothing along with contests and music by a live DJ.
The scenes for the show were Fall, Vintage, Freestyle Runway and Babafrik (a clothing line by Nigerian student Babatunde Sansui). The show also featured performances by the Men of En Veux, the Women of En Veux and South Carolina State's Verve' Fashion Movement.

Aug, 2015

INCLEMENT WEATHER NOTIFICATION DIRECTORY
​​In the event of inclement weather conditions in the area, Claflin University may delay or cancel campus operations and classes.
The above link contains a directory of media outlets that will alert you to any delayed opening, early release or closing information for Claflin University.